MAY 13, 2019 VOLUME 19, ISSUE 31 Star Shines Breakthrough in New Material to Harness Solar Power Could Transform Energy

utnews.utoledo.edu MAY 13, 2019 VOLUME 19, ISSUE 31 Star shines Breakthrough in new material to harness solar power could transform energy

By Christine Billau

he most affordable, Tefficient way to harness the cleanest, most abundant renewable energy source in the world is one step closer to reality. The University of Toledo physicist pushing the performance of solar cells to levels never before reached made a significant breakthrough in the chemical formula and process to make the new material. Working in collaboration Photo by Daniel MiIler with the U.S. Department of “The odds were totally stacked against me, but guess what — the odds are stacked against Energy’s National Renewable Photo by Daniel MiIler everybody. So if you’re waiting for a sign, this is it,” Katie Holmes told more than 2,000 candidates for Energy Lab and the University undergraduate degrees May 4 in the Glass Bowl. “You deserve joy — not in 10 years, but now. So try of Colorado, Dr. Yanfa Yan, POWERING UP: Dr. Zhaoning Song holds a perovskite solar cell minimodule he developed with Dr. Yanfa Yan. The higher- to be equal parts tough and gentle with yourself. Take things one step at a time. Work hard when no UToledo professor of physics, one is looking. And don’t let anybody say you never called them back.” The Toledo native who rose efficiency, lower-cost solar cell technology could revolutionize to fame as an actor, producer and director received an honorary doctor of humane letters degree. continued on p. 10 energy generation around the globe. See more graduation photos on p. 2.

UToledo scholar awarded Fulbright to Sudan for next academic year

By Christine Billau

Dr. Asma Abdel Halim’s quarter Saharan Africa for the 2019-20 academic gendered laws and how to combat their century of research questioning the breach year as a Fulbright Scholar. effects,” Abdel Halim said. and progress of Muslim women’s human Abdel Halim, associate professor in Since its inception in 1946, the rights is personal. the UToledo Department of Women’s and Fulbright U.S. Scholar program within Her own life experience fuels her life’s Gender Studies, and director of the Center the U.S. Department of State has worked work to protect Muslim women worldwide of the Muslim Woman, will study the to improve intercultural relations and for generations to come. history of gender effects on Sudanese law, diplomacy through national fellowship. The next leg of her journey takes her produce ideas for reform, and teach a class The program in Sudan was suspended in back to her native Sudan, a place Abdel on gender and the law at her alma mater, the 1992 after the U.S. issued an embargo on Halim describes as “a country that has University of Khartoum. relations with the country and was reinstated always subjected women to a version of “As a Muslim woman joining other two years ago after President Trump lifted Islamic law that is fashioned according to Muslim women in researching Islamic U.S. sanctions. the political mood of the government.” laws and critiquing centuries of patriarchal “As Dr. Asma Abdel Halim travels The prestigious Fulbright U.S. Scholar dominance, I find it necessary to explore around the world sharing her knowledge, program selected The University of Toledo women’s history, rights and developments insight and experience, she helps raise faculty member focused on women’s rights because I am determined to address awareness about problems and protections under religious laws to travel to Sub- of women living under Muslim laws,” continued on p. 3 Abdel Halim

LOOK FOR THE NEXT ISSUE OF UT NEWS MAY 28 MAY 13, 2019 NEWS

Time to celebrate

Randy Thomas enthusiastically celebrated receiving a bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences. An engaged student on campus, Thomas was a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., served as a resident advisor, and was active in the Camp Adventure program.

Susan Nguyen and her 4-year-old daughter, Adalee Nguyen, were all smiles during the undergraduate commencement ceremony May 4 in the Glass Bowl. Susan received a bachelor of science degree in paralegal studies.

Aiya Eighaffar topped her mortarboard with University Hall’s iconic bell tower. Eighaffar is a member of Blue Key National Honor Society and a past president of Alpha Chi Omega.

Dr. Scott Parazynski, a pioneering explorer, inventor, astronaut and physician, delivered the address at the College of Medicine and Life Photos by Daniel MiIler Sciences’ commencement ceremony May 10 in Savage Arena. “You have President Sharon L. Gaber, right, and Katie Holmes been given a great opportunity paused on their walk to the stage during the University’s to serve the community in many May 4 undergraduate commencement ceremony in ways, not only as healers, but also the Glass Bowl. Holmes returned to her hometown to as leaders and mentors,” he told address 2,078 candidates for degrees. The internationally the graduates. “I remember back recognized actor, producer, director and entrepreneur to the many mentors who took was awarded an honorary doctorate of humane letters. time for me way back when, when the thought of becoming a doctor and an astronaut was so far off, it was almost laughable. And I’m sure you’ve had incredible role models here and also family members who’ve supported you getting to this point. Now it’s going to be your turn.” A total of 238 degrees were awarded, and Parazynski received an honorary doctorate of science.

2 NEWS MAY 13, 2019 UToledo public health expert awarded Fulbright grant to Taiwan

By Tyrel Linkhorn

University of Toledo public health diabetes, cancer and stroke are Aexpert will spend six weeks in Taiwan among the 10 leading causes of this spring to help one of that country’s top death. universities internationalize its public health “Good patient education curriculum. can prevent unnecessary Dr. Jiunn-Jye Sheu, a professor in the costs in health care,” he said. College of Health and Human Services’ “Unfortunately, patient education School of Population Health, received has not been mandated in Taiwan a Fulbright Specialist Award to advance or the U.S. I want to investigate global health initiatives. in collaboration with Taiwan The trip to National Taiwan Normal scholars how they work patient University in May will be his first as part of education into the national health the Fulbright program. insurance system and how that is “To become a Fulbright Specialist or effective and efficient.” Scholar really comes with enthusiasm. We Much of Sheu’s research have so many qualified, outstanding faculty work is focused on quantitative at The University of Toledo, and I’m very analysis of public health data, proud and pleased to have been selected,” particularly on youth risk Sheu said. “I think it’s meaningful I’m able behaviors and the ways in which to make such a contribution to help people patients and health-care providers in Taiwan and the United States.” make choices that influence care. He will provide guidance to National Recently, using path Taiwan Normal University, which is modeling, he worked with working to revise and refine its public health Dr. Colleen Taylor, assistant curriculum to meet the same standards set professor in the College of Photo by Daniel MiIler by the accrediting body in the U.S. Nursing, to investigate the factors Sheu, who earned his bachelor’s degree that go into how nurses make HEALTH FRONT: Dr. Jiunn-Jye Sheu showed off his Fulbright Specialist Award. He leaves this week for National at National Taiwan Normal University, decisions about administering pain Taiwan Normal University, where he will help revise and refine its public health curriculum. also will help the school toward its goal of medication in patients recovering adding more English-instructed courses. from operations. The study was named the recommendations and the health protective in terms of their health-related behaviors,” Taiwan has a robust health-care system, 2017 best research paper of the year by the behaviors of women who had gestational he said. “We’ve always known their stated but as a fully developed country, residents journal Orthopaedic Nursing. diabetes. reasons, but without this technique, we face many of the same chronic health Sheu also collaborated on soon- “These types of studies provide a don’t know how those reasons interact with threats as the United States — heart disease, to-be-published research into how better understanding about how people each other and which are direct and indirect pregnant women adhere to prenatal care make their decisions and how people act influences.”

Fulbright continued from p. 1

Dr. Sharon Barnes, associate professor “As a student there, I never favoring men because of their participation in regression to old traditions rather than and chair in the UToledo Department of encountered gender in any of the courses,” in war lead to the subjugation of women to in change. I plan to follow the historical Women’s and Gender Studies, said. “Her Abdel Halim said. “My experience studying the authority of male guardians.” events of the recent history of the Sudan and outstanding scholarship consistently brings and teaching in the United States proved Abdel Halim plans to write a book look closely to the history of women in the great prestige to The University of Toledo. that gender as a tool of analysis is vital in after accessing old Shari’a sources, such country and understand why developments While we will miss her at home, we are studying law.” as treaties written by scholars centuries in legislation go back and forth. I also will proud the Fulbright program has recognized Abdel Halim, who earned her Ph.D. at ago and still considered the main source of examine how the intersection of gender and her forward-thinking work on international Ohio University, said actions of extremists Islamic rules today. She also plans to delve religion seems to always end in the defeat of women’s issues.” lead many to question the tenets of Islam into the era of Mahdiyya uprisings and older women’s rights in favor of archaic religious Abdel Halim, a faculty member at and the religion’s commitment to equality. archives. norms.” UToledo for 15 years, graduated from “Religious interpretations are being “The intersection of religion and gender the Faculty of Law at the University of misused to strengthen conservative stances seems to be working against women where Khartoum with a bachelor’s degree in 1980 regarding the curbing of human rights,” legislation is concerned,” Abdel Halim and a master’s degree in 1988. Abdel Halim said. “Old traditions of said. “Ideological traditions find safety

3 MAY 13, 2019 SCIENCE Children can learn about Apollo 11 moon landing at Ritter Planetarium

By Christine Billau

he University of Toledo Ritter Plan- Tetarium is showing a new program in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. “CAPCOM GO! The Apollo Story” is featured on Fridays at 8:30 p.m. through July 26. The program is an immersive historical documentary in full dome that showcases the achievement of the Apollo program and what it took to put the first human on the moon and return him safely to Earth. It introduces a new generation to the immense challenges they overcame and will inspire them to become the explorers, designers, engineers, thinkers and dreamers of the future. “This epic event on July 20, 1969, was a marvel of technology and human ingenuity,” Alex Mak, associate director of UToledo Ritter Planetarium, said. “This is an incredible opportunity for adults to relive the wonder, awe and excitement, but also for children to discover how we did it.” Admission to the program is $7 for adults and $5 for children, senior citizens and UToledo community members. All children younger than 4 are free. Doors open 30 minutes prior to the show.

4 SCIENCE MAY 13, 2019 Families invited to Earth and Space Exploration Day at Ritter Planetarium May 18

By Christine Billau

graduate student at The University of Kuchta’s connection to the cosmos A Toledo who aspires to someday teach began as a baby, according to family legend. at a planetarium went above and beyond “My mom took me to a planetarium at to elevate an annual event aimed at inspir- the Cleveland Museum of Natural History ing and motivating children to engage with when I was a few months old because she science. was chaperoning a trip for one of my older From playing hide-and-seek moon siblings,” Kuchta said. using binoculars to creating a pocket solar Ritter Planetarium proved to be the system to scale to using a tub of water to deciding factor in choosing a college. explain rising sea levels and climate change, “During a campus tour, I was hooked this year’s Earth and Space Exploration when we walked through the planetarium Day at Ritter Planetarium will feature a and checked out the telescope,” Kuchta said. new set of hands-on activities in astronomy Kuchta helps put on planetarium shows and earth science using interactive that explain current celestial phenomena and demonstrations in collaboration with NASA leads tours from different groups of visitors and the National Informational STEM ranging from residents of a senior center Education (NISE) Network. to a preschool class. She also helps create Heidi Kuchta, who started working as content. an assistant at Ritter Planetarium five years “Heidi is creative, energetic, and ago as a freshman, applied for and secured always willing to find new ways to help one of 350 kits distributed nationwide. people learn more about the universe,” Mak “I love that families in our community said. “She has a bright future.” Photo by Daniel MiIler will have something incredibly interesting to do and stuff to take home,” Kuchta said. EDUCATIONAL MISSION: Heidi Kuchta received kits from NASA and the National Informational STEM Education Network that will be distributed during Earth and Space Exploration Day “With the support of the NISE Network Saturday, May 18, at Ritter Planetarium. and NASA, we are able to add a wonderful spark to our annual Astronomy Day by expanding and escalating the overall fun, learning experience for children.” Earth and Space Exploration Day will take place Saturday, May 18, from noon to 4 p.m. at Ritter Planetarium. The free, public event also will include planetarium shows running in full dome every hour starting at 12:30 p.m., as well as solar observing, weather permitting. “From the beginning, Heidi has shown tremendous dedication to our outreach efforts,” Alex Mak, associate director of Ritter Planetarium, said. “This workshop is just one example of her ability to expand upon our traditional educational mission.” Kuchta earned her bachelor’s degree in physics and geology from UToledo last year and is pursuing her master’s in an accelerated teaching program in the Judith Herb College of Education. “A lot of planetariums are in schools, so I thought this innovative path would be a good way to combine education and what I love to do here,” Kuchta said. “At a planetarium, we only have students for a short period of time. They’ll learn here, but, more importantly, it will get them asking questions, expand their curiosity, and maybe nourish the dream of becoming the scientists who get people to Mars or become the first person to walk on Mars.” LUNAR LEARNING: Children use binoculars and play hide-and-seek moon with a kit from NASA and the National Informational STEM Education Network.

5 MAY 13, 2019 RESEARCH Inexpensive agricultural waste product can remove microcystin from water, new UToledo research finds

By Tyrel Linkhorn

cientists at The University of Toledo drinking water Shave discovered that rice husks can guideline that effectively remove microcystin from water, young children a finding that could have far-reaching not drink water implications for communities along the containing Great Lakes and across the developing more than a world. total of 0.3 ppb An abundant and inexpensive of microcystin agricultural byproduct, rice husks have and school-age been investigated as a water purification children and solution in the past. However, this is the adults not drink first time they have been shown to remove Devasurendra water containing microcystin, the toxin released by harmful more than a total algal blooms. of 1.6 ppb of microcystin. The results of the study were recently Beyond their effectiveness, rice husks published in the journal Science of the Total have a number of other appealing attributes. Environment. They’re cheap — researchers paid $14.50 “Delivering safe water is critical, and for half a cubic foot, and buying in bulk finding an economically viable solution would bring that price down significantly — to deliver safe water to people all over the and they’re able to be repurposed. world is going to be really important. The Heating microcystin-laden rice husks to ability of this simple material to be powerful 560 degrees Celsius destroys the toxins and enough to address this issue is impressive,” produces silica particles, which can be used said Dr. Jon Kirchhoff, Distinguished in other applications. University Professor and chair of the The Photo by Daniel MiIler Chemistry and Biochemistry Department. researchers are The research, led by Kirchhoff and hopeful their HUSKY RESEARCH: Dr. Jon Kirchhoff, right, Dr. Dragan Isailovic, center, and doctoral student David Baliu-Rodriguez have published a paper, along with UToledo graduates Dr. Amila Devasurendra Dr. Dragan Isailovic, associate professor of discovery could and Dr. Dilrukshika Palagama, about using rice husks, below, to remove microcystin chemistry in the College of Natural Sciences be scaled up from water. and Mathematics, used organic rice husks beyond the lab to that were treated with hydrochloric acid and develop a more heated to 250 degrees Celsius. environmentally The rice husks were then dispersed in a friendly method series of water samples collected from Lake for treating water Erie during the 2017 harmful algal bloom to that has been measure how much of the toxin they could contaminated absorb. Palagama by harmful algal Researchers found the rice husks blooms or cheap but effective filtration removed more than 95 percent of systems for the developing world. microcystin MC-LR — the most common “We could potentially use this readily type found in Lake Erie — in concentrations available material to purify water before it of up to 596 parts per billion (ppb). Even even gets into Lake Erie,” Isailovic said. in concentrations approaching 3,000 ppb, “There are engineering solutions that need more than 70 percent of the MC-LR was to be done, but one of our dreams is to apply removed, and other types of MCs were what we develop in our labs to provide safe removed as well. drinking water.” “We looked at the removal of Other authors of the study were microcystins from real environmental doctoral students Dr. Dilrukshika Palagama samples and the material has performed and Dr. Amila Devasurendra, who first really well,” Isailovic said. “We are talking proposed looking at rice husks as a way about extremely high concentrations to remove microcystin and have since of microcystins originating from graduated from UToledo, and current cyanobacterial cells. Normally during doctoral student David Baliu-Rodriguez. summer, we have much, much lower concentrations in Lake Erie.” The United States Environmental Protection Agency recommends a 10-day

6 ARTS MAY 13, 2019 Creativity blossoms with University’s Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition

By Vicki L. Kroll

small flock of enigmatic birds side of Wolfe Hall, and Beau Bilenki’s A intently gaze across Centennial engineering feat “Hole in One” is between Mall. A wayward sea turtle suns itself near Nitschke and Palmer halls. the southwest corner of Bowman-Oddy A 250-pound fish flies near the Laboratories. And a wave rolls between University Parks Trail and Ottawa House UToledo Medical Center and Mulford with Michael Angelo Magnotta’s “Above “Above the Waves” Library. the Waves.” by Michael Angelo “Birdzels” by Mark Chatterley, “My sculptures typically begin Magnotta is located “Turtle” by Jonathan Bowling and “Blue with a trip to the metal yard,” Magnotta by the University Wave” by Mike Sohikian are three of the said. “From the shapes and textures I Parks Trail and 10 new works installed for The University rescue, a conversation takes place — a Ottawa House. of Toledo’s 14th annual Outdoor Sculpture visual conversation — that results in my Exhibition. sculptures.” “For me, ‘Birdzels’ were meant to Gregory Mendez’s forceful “Kometes” be fun. They are a cross between anime, is located north of Ritter Planetarium, emojis and Angry Birds — with a little and Kenneth M. Thompson’s intricate Snoop Dog mixed in,” Chatterley said and “Laminated Stack, Triangle” sits on the laughed. “They are made from high-fired east side of the Health and Human Services clay with a crater glaze on the outside. I Building. feel I am pushing the material to make it More than 180 artists submitted unrecognizable as clay.” proposals to the Midwest Sculpture Bowling’s recycled reptile features a Initiative, and the President’s Commission dredge scoop, railroad spikes, horseshoes on Campus Design and Environment and stove grates. reviewed the entries and selected pieces for “Being able to make something from this year’s exhibit. nothing is what I like to do,” Bowling said. Since the exhibition began, more than “It’s economical, too.” 130 sculptures have rotated through the Thanks to the President’s Commission display on UToledo campuses, and several on Campus Design and Environment, new have become part of the University’s sculptures sprout up each spring. collection courtesy of campus benefactors, “Big Blue X” by Brian Ferriby sits atop colleges and departments. the hill west of University Hall, and Glenn Those wishing to make a gift to support Zweygardt’s stainless steel work titled the exhibition are encouraged to contact “New Mexico Passage” shines on the west the UT Foundation at 419.530.7730 or side of the Student Recreation Center. [email protected]. Bernie Dominique’s geometric work “Four Square” can be found by the northeast

Mark Chatterley’s “Birdzels” are perched on the west side of Centennial Mall.

Photos by Daniel MiIler “Turtle” by Jonathan Bowling sits near the southwest corner of Bowman-Oddy Laboratories.

7 MAY 13, 2019 NEWS Assistant provost receives Hymore Award

Dr. Julie Fischer-Kinney, assistant retention. Additionally, provost for student success and retention she has transformed in the Office of the Provost, is the 2019 the success coaching recipient of the Diane Hymore Exemplar initiative from a raw of Excellence Award. idea into a powerful She received the honor named for the movement that is truly longtime executive secretary May 6 at the impacting student lives.” Outstanding Staff Awards in the Thomas Another noted and Elizabeth Brady Engineering Innovation that in addition to her Center. many responsibilities, The award is presented annually to Fischer-Kinney always an individual whose work defines the core takes the time to serve values of the University in Hymore’s spirit as a success coach for of support, encouragement and service. students each semester. “In the two decades Dr. Fischer- “Many students Kinney has dedicated to the University, her struggle to find their decisions have always been shaped with ambition, but the student in mind,” a nominator wrote. Dr. Fischer-Kinney “She constantly seeks student feedback on helps instill motivation various issues in order to ensure the best to allow the student outcome for the student. This allows her to to discover their full stay grounded and make sure decisions are academic potential,” best for the current generation of students.” a nominator wrote. Fischer-Kinney has worked at the “Regardless of how University 21 years, starting as an academic busy her schedule may program coordinator in the Chemical be, Dr. Fischer-Kinney Photo by Daniel MiIler Engineering Department. She also has always makes time to RECOGNITION: Dr. Julie Fischer-Kinney received the Diane Hymore Exemplar of Excellence Award from Wendy Davis, served as director of student services in the be there for the student. associate vice president and chief human resources officer, left, and University President Sharon L. Gaber. College of Nursing; director of New Student They value her as an Orientation Programs; associate dean and advocate who will help them reflect on their a variety of student concerns or chase after Fischer-Kinney received a bachelor’s interim dean of YouCollege; and director of college and life goals, and connect them to students with assorted academic, financial degree in business administration majoring success coaching. the resources and tools. Dr. JFK, as students and personal issues bubbling up. Dr. JFK in marketing, and master of education and “Dr. Fischer-Kinney is an outstanding call her, always carves out time to focus on is committed to an open, candid and warm doctoral degrees in higher education from supervisor, mentor and student advocate,” a the individual at hand. environment where we can embrace a team the University. nominator wrote. “She tirelessly champions “Success coaching and retention work approach, lean on each other as needed, and efforts that impact student success and can be challenging. Every day coaches hear grow from each other.”

Lauded for service

Dr. Donald Wedding, associate professor of management, showed the special pin he received from Matt Schroeder, interim executive vice president for finanace and administration, and President Sharon L. Gaber during the Service Awards last month. Wedding was honored for 50 years of service to the University. More than 650 employees were recognized for reaching milestone years of service in 2018.

Photo by Daniel MiIler

8 NEWS MAY 13, 2019 Employees honored with Outstanding Staff Awards

ive employees took home the Univer- to share her knowledge with others on her “Literally nothing in our department “She is excellence performed every day; Fsity’s 2019 Outstanding Staff Awards. team. Laura helps to represent the absolute would work well without Cathy Chengges. from urgent tasks that overtake the long- More than 60 nominees were celebrated best of the University.” She not only makes sure that we have term projects she is always working on, at a May 6 ceremony in the Thomas and Betsy Buschmann, medical assistant humane teaching times, she also makes sure to the consistency of keeping calendars Elizabeth Brady Engineering Innovation in the Gastroenterology Clinic in UToledo that we are teaching classes that reasonably for the entire department’s goings on, she Center. The event was hosted by Human Medical Center. She has worked at the complement one another,” one nominator is always on top, sorting out issues, and Resources on behalf of President Sharon hospital since 2014. noted. Another wrote, “Cathy Chengges has stopping problems even before they are L. Gaber. “Betsy has a great passion for what she been a steady, supporting presence in the able to arise. Lisa is truly a role model for Winners this year were: does and it shows in her work,” a patient English Department for many years. Her professionalism and excellence.” Laura M. Brown, academic wrote. “She has always taken my calls, got work in creating the extremely unwieldy Sherri Kaspar, director of parking accommodation specialist, compliance, answers for me in a timely manner, and had course schedule for the English Department, and transportation in Auxiliary Services. in the Department of Student Disability patience with me regardless of what the semester after semester, is remarkable. She joined the University in 2004 as event Services. She joined the University in 2014 issue may have been or how many times She is a scheduling superhero. I hate to manager for the Toledo Police Department. as a secretary in the College of Business and I may have contacted her. She is always think that she will ever retire.” “She is the A UToledo alumna, she received a master’s Innovation, and is a graduate of UToledo willing to help me, and I have seen her take most professional, competent, exceptional degree in recreation administration in 2004. with a bachelor of arts degree. the time to help others when needed. Not person on so many levels. She is my go-to “Ms. Kaspar inspires others to “Laura is the face of Student Disability everyone enjoys going to the doctor, but person who I can ask just about anything, do excellent work and promotes the Services at the University. She is extremely her positive and friendly personality makes epitomizing what I feel defines the highest professional goals of those she works with. knowledgeable, compassionate and kind in it much more rewarding when entering the qualities of University spirit and character,” She takes positivity and applies it to every a very busy and demanding environment,” clinic.” Another wrote, “I always feel as another wrote. employee not to mention the many students one nominator wrote. “She effortlessly if I am the only patient that is being seen Lisa Edwards, secretary in the whom she directs,” one nominator wrote. manages the daily operations of the office because of the way that Betsy ensures Department of Art in the College of Arts and “She consistently monitors her program, while providing resources and guidance that the flow of my visit goes smoothly.” Letters. She joined the University in 2014. employees and volunteer retirees who work for new and continuing students, parents, Another noted, “She is an inspiration to “Lisa is the absolute heart of our with her. After seeing her in action for five faculty and staff. Navigating resources and others.” department. She is always positive, helpful, years, she is in a position where no one academic accommodations can sometimes Catherine Chengges, administrative organized and so on top of everything,” is consistently pleased with all aspects of be complicated for students with disabilities, coordinator in the Department of English one nominator wrote. “She works selflessly parking simultaneously as the daily variable but Laura provides a consistent and Language and Literature in the College and passionately to make everyone’s issues she deals with are never the same. friendly contact every step of the way.” of Arts and Letters, and instructor in both life better — especially for our students Her commitment to excellence in her area Another noted, “Laura is an efficient and the Jesup Scott Honors College and the and prospective students. Her positive is exemplary and deserves to be brought to talented employee who engages in process College of Arts and Letters. She received attitude is infectious and makes the the attention of the University community,” improvements and creating efficiencies. her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from whole department a better place.” “Lisa’s one nominator wrote. “She runs a tight ship Her work is continuously done at a very the University. reliability is almost unfathomable until and cares for her employees, and we all care high standard, and Laura is always willing you get to work with her,” another wrote. for her.”

Photo by Daniel MiIler

CAMPUS SPOTLIGHT: Receiving the University’s 2019 Outstanding Staff Awards were, from left, Catherine Chengges, Sherri Kaspar, Betsy Buschmann, Laura M. Brown and Lisa Edwards.

9 MAY 13, 2019 NEWS UToledo researcher using drones to measure Solar power algal blooms to speak May 23 at continued from p. 1 National Museum of the Great Lakes envisions the ultra-high efficiency material called a tandem perovskite By Christine Billau solar cell will be ready to debut in full-sized solar panels in the consumer market in the near future. etermined to protect drinking water and avert is becoming more effective,” Dr. Tom Bridgeman, Perovskites, compound materials with a special crystal structure Danother water crisis, a scientist at The University professor of ecology and director of the UToledo Lake formed through chemistry, would replace silicon, which — for now — of Toledo deploys drones to snap a quick assessment Erie Center, said. “Dr. Becker’s research in coupling remains the solar-cell material of choice for converting the sun’s light of water quality during algal bloom season, no boat or remote sensing data with boat-based water monitoring into electrical energy. satellite required. has improved the accuracy of harmful algal bloom “We are producing higher-efficiency, lower-cost solar cells that Dr. Richard Becker, associate professor in assessments. Also, his research to develop drones as show great promise to help solve the world energy crisis,” Yan said. the Department of Environmental Sciences, will inexpensive tools to measure algal blooms is helping “The meaningful work will help protect our planet for our children and give a presentation titled “Using Drones to Answer to fill a gap left by more expensive methods.” future generations. We have a problem consuming most of the fossil Questions in Environmental Science” Thursday, A shuttle will be available to transport visitors energies right now, and our collaborative team is focused on refining our May 23, at 7 p.m. at the National Museum of the from UToledo’s Main Campus to the National innovative way to clean up the mess.” Great Lakes, located at 1701 Front St. in Toledo. Museum of the Great Lakes and back. The shuttle will The new research paper, which is published in the journal Science, The researcher will discuss his use of low-flying depart at 6:15 p.m. from the south side of Bowman- outlines how the photovoltaics team is fine-tuning a mix of lead and tin unmanned aerial vehicles to monitor the health of Oddy Laboratories. Passengers must reserve a spot by to advance the technology closer to its maximum efficiency. Efforts have Lake Erie. Tuesday, May 21. currently brought the efficiency of the new solar cell to about 23 percent. The free, public event is the final presentation in Email [email protected] or call In comparison, silicon solar panels on the market today have around an the 2018-19 UToledo Lake Erie Center Lecture Series. 419.530.8360 to make a reservation for the shuttle. 18 percent efficiency rating. “As remote sensing technology advances, Scientists used a chemical compound called guanidinium monitoring lakes using satellites, aircraft and drones thiocyanate to dramatically improve the structural and optoelectronic properties of the lead-tin mixed perovskite films. “Science is the top academic journal in the world, alongside Nature, which published other research by Dr. Yan only five months ago after he discovered a single material that produces white light, which could boost Celebrating generosity and scholarship the efficiency and appeal of LED bulbs,” Dr. Sanjay Khare, professor and chair of the UToledo Department of Physics and Astronomy, said. “His significant sustainability work at The University of Toledo can help power the world using clean energy.” About five years ago Yan’s team at UToledo identified the ideal properties of perovskites, and he has since focused his 20 years of experience on producing an all-perovskite tandem solar cell that brings together two different solar cells to increase the total electrical power generated by using two different parts of the sun’s spectrum. Last month the U.S. Department of Energy awarded Yan a $1.1 million grant to continue his research in collaboration with the National Renewable Energy Lab. “This is the material we’ve been waiting for for a long time,” Yan said. “The solar industry is watching and waiting. Some have already started investing in this technology.” Yan is an expert in theory of defect physics and electronic properties in semiconductors, materials synthesis and thin-film solar-cell fabrication. “Our UToledo research is ongoing to make cheaper and more efficient solar cells that could rival and even outperform the prevailing silicon photovoltaic technology,” said Dr. Zhaoning Song, research assistant professor in the UToledo Department of Physics and Astronomy, and co-author on the study. “Our tandem solar cells with two layers

Photo by Mike Henningsen of perovskites deliver high-power conversion efficiency and have the potential to bring down production costs of solar panels, which is an UToledo President Sharon L. Gaber presented the Frank E. Horton Presidents Club Scholarships during the University’s important advance in photovoltaics.” 30th annual Donor Recognition Reception May 9. The 2019 recipients are, from left, Jared Repas, who is in the professional While Yan’s team has improved the quality of the materials and the division of the Doctor of Pharmacy Program; Lydia Ratterree, a junior majoring in social work; and Kyle Cotner, a senior process to manufacture them at a low cost, more progress needs to be majoring in biology. Each year, the event honors the contributions and generosity of thousands of The University of Toledo’s made. alumni, friends and supporters. “The material cost is low and the fabrication cost is low, but the lifetime of the material is still an unknown,” Song said. “We need to continue to increase efficiency and stability.” “Also, lead is considered a toxic substance,” Yan said. “I am determined to work with the solar industry to ensure solar panels made of this material can be recycled so they don’t cause harm to the environment.”

10 ARTS MAY 13, 2019 Solar power UToledo students’ winning biodesign projects to compete in continued from p. 1 New York

By Angela Riddel

wo groups of UToledo students will The overall winner of the UToledo Tcompete against more than 30 teams competition was btilix. This team developed from around the world Thursday and Friday, a disinfectant spray for combatting June 20 and 21, at the Biodesign Challenge antibiotic-resistant superbugs. The students Summit at the Parsons School of Design on the btilix team are Tyler Saner, art; Sarah and the Museum of Modern Art in Mattei, environmental engineering and earth New York City. science; Courtney Kinzel, environmental The two teams, PlastiGrow and btilix, engineering and earth science; Timothy won the chance to travel to the Big Apple at Wolf, bioengineering; and Sherin Aburidi, the UToledo competition last month at the bioengineering. Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion. The UToledo team, PlastiGrow, is Presented by The University of Toledo, applying to compete in New York for the the Biodesign Challenge offers art and ORTA Sustainability in Textiles Prize. design, bioengineering, and environmental The team engineered a biodegradable sciences students the opportunity to envision plastic material that can be used in the future applications of biotechnology and creation of everyday products to greatly biomaterials that address complex global reduce the cost and energy spent on waste challenges. Students are connected with and recycling efforts. Team members are community experts to develop innovative McKenzie Dunwald, art; Michael Socha, solutions through interdisciplinary research bioengineering; Colin Chalmers, art; and and iterative prototyping. Ysabelle Yrad, environmental engineering “Normally, our jurors award one team and earth science. with the honor of competing in New York, For more information on the Biodesign Btilix team members are, from left, Tyler Saner, Sarah Mattei, Courtney Kinzel, Timothy Wolf and but this year we have the opportunity to Challenge, visit biodesignchallenge.org/ Sherin Aburidi. award not just one team — a team that will summit-2019. compete against all schools — but we are also putting up for consideration another team for a special prize, so we are happy to announce our two winning teams, btilix and PlastiGrow,” Eric Zeigler, assistant professor of art, said.

Students on the PlastiGrow team are, from left, McKenzie Dunwald, Michael Socha, Colin Chalmers and Ysabelle Yrad.

11 MAY 13, 2019 NEWS Latino Youth Summit set to inspire local students

By Bailey Sparks

bout 500 area students are expected to attend the A17th annual Latino Youth Summit this week at The University of Toledo to gain a better understanding of the four-year college experience and discuss paths to success. “We want students to leave campus knowing that they should be proud of their Latino heritage and culture, and that higher education is an option for them and that they are valued by UToledo,” said Aleiah Jones, coordinator in the Office of Multicultural Student Success and committee chair of the event. “We want them to learn about all of the opportunities that are available to them here so that one day they can become Rockets.” The session for Garcia-Fresco sixth- to eighth-graders will take place Tuesday, May 14, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. High schoolers will visit campus Wednesday, May 15, from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Both will be held in the Thompson Student Union. Students will discuss college preparation tips, career exploration and scholarship opportunities. Dr. German Garcia-Fresco, neuroscientist, entrepreneur and author, will be the guest speaker at this year’s summit. He will talk to students about “10 Things I Didn’t Learn in School” at 10 a.m. both days in the Thompson Student Union Auditorium. Garcia-Fresco is director of the Adaptive Neuroscience Research Institute in San Diego and founder of Doctor Fresco Academy, an online education course platform. His research has led to advances in neurobiology, contributing to mechanisms involved in neurodegenerative diseases. Garcia-Fresco has focused on the behavioral aspects of brain functioning, specifically decision making, emotional control and creative enhancement. He is researching techniques to increase neuronal performance and developing health and educational brain programs for children and adults. The recipient of the President’s Award for excellence in genetics and biochemistry is the author of “Train Your Brain for Success: How a Healthy Brain is the Key to Happiness and Success.” Published in 2018, the book shows how a healthy brain can help build what Garcia- Fresco calls the three pillars of life: health, relationships and wealth. He studied chemistry and molecular biology at the State University of New York at Purchase and received bachelor of arts and master of science degrees, and continued his education at the University of North Carolina, where he received a doctorate in molecular neurobiology. For more information on the Latino Youth Summit, contact Jones at [email protected] or 419.530.2261. 12 NEWS MAY 13, 2019 Performance evaluations due June 1 Main Campus Pharmacy switching for non-union employees to summer hours

s a reminder, by Friday, June 1, doesn’t require much time to complete the he University of Toledo’s Main University Health Center, where parking is Asupervisors of non-union/Professional annual evaluation. TCampus Outpatient Pharmacy will available next to the building. Staff Association employees should meet “Before their evaluation, each begin its summer hours Monday, May 13. “Our services offered include with each of their employees to discuss their employee should complete the self- The pharmacy will be open Monday personalized health care, immunization, performance during the past year. evaluation form available on Human through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. affordable prices, and a wide array of Supervisors who manage AFSCME Resources’ webpage, too, because that and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. over-the-counter products,” Dr. Valerie and/or CWA employees should continue to also enables their supervisor to provide Summer hours will remain in effect Householder, manager of the Main Campus follow the agreed-upon schedules of union an accurate evaluation and cite specific until Monday, Aug. 19, one week prior to Outpatient Pharmacy, said. “Our staff can contracts. performance examples,” Davis added. the start of fall semester. conveniently transfer prescriptions from A table of all performance evaluation After reviewing the information on The pharmacy is located on the other outpatient pharmacies.” deadlines is available on at utoledo.edu/ Human Resources’ webpage, supervisors southwest side of Main Campus across For more information, call depts/hr/evaluations.html along with who have any questions about completing from the Horton International House in the 419.530.3471. employee performance and self-evaluation performance evaluations may contact forms, other tools, and frequently asked Terrie Kovacs, director for human questions. resources, at [email protected] or “We truly appreciate our leadership 419.530.1478. Sunny blooms team providing timely evaluations for each “Through ongoing communication, of their employees,” said Wendy Davis, including the performance evaluation associate vice president and chief human discussion, we can better ensure our resources officer. “If you routinely log employees have ample opportunities to examples of exceptional performance and grow professionally and to serve all of our any areas needing improvement for each stakeholders in the best way possible,” of your employees throughout the year, it Davis said.

Dining options, hours announced for summer

aculty, staff and students are reminded for small and large events throughout Fthey have several dining options the summer. For more information or throughout the summer at eateries to schedule catering, contact Ricardo conveniently located both on and near Main Solis at [email protected] or Campus. 419.530.8488. For summer session one, these dining “Our goal is to ensure our campus venues in Thompson Student Union community and guests still have several are open Monday through Friday at the dining options to meet their needs when following times: on-campus eateries have reduced hours of • Starbucks, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; operation during summer sessions,” said • Magic Wok and Subway, 11 a.m. to Bonnie Murphy, associate vice president for 3 p.m.; and auxiliary services. • Phoenicia Cuisine, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., At Gateway, Brew coffee bar, Calle May 6 to May 12; and 10 a.m. to Tacos & Lounge, Jimmy John’s, Domino’s 5 p.m., May 13 to June 30. Pizza and Rice Blvd Restaurant offer diners A complete list of summer hours for additional food and beverage options, along on-campus dining venues is available at with the Stubborn Brother Pizza Bar on utoledo.edu/mealplans/hours.html. Bancroft Street. Additionally, the University continues to offer on-campus catering services

This host of golden daffodils near Scott Hall was captured last week by University Photographer Daniel Miller. 13 MAY 13, 2019 SPORTS Four Toledo teams lead MAC in academic scores

By Paul Helgren

he NCAA released its annual Academic Progress Rate (APR) figures TMay 8, and once again The University of Toledo received very impressive scores across the board. The University of Toledo Academic Progress Rates For the four-year period from 2014-15 to 2017-18, all 16 Rocket varsity sports had at least a 957 score, well above the NCAA’s cut point of 930, Toledo Four-Year APR# Women’s Golf — 1,000* with women’s golf, men’s tennis and women’s tennis leading the way with perfect 1,000 marks. Those three sports plus football (981) had either the Baseball — 986 Women’s Soccer — 998 highest APR score or were tied for the highest score in the Mid-American Men’s Basketball — 979 Softball — 972 Conference. Men’s Cross Country — 957 Women’s Swimming — 996 Six other Rocket teams were within five APR points of the league Football — 981* Women’s Tennis — 1,000* leader: baseball, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, women’s soccer, Men’s Golf — 985 Women’s Track and Field — 976 women’s swimming and diving, and women’s volleyball. “These impressive APR numbers are a reflection of the terrific job our Men’s Tennis — 1,000* Women’s Volleyball — 995 student-athletes are doing in the classroom,” said UToledo Vice President Women’s Basketball — 996 NCAA Cut Point — 930 and Athletic Director Mike O’Brien. “Strong APR numbers are a very good Women’s Cross Country — 982 indicator that our student-athletes are on track to graduate, so it was no surprise when we saw 77 Rocket student-athletes receive their diplomas at #Four-year data from academic years 2014-15 through 2017-18 spring commencement.” *Highest APR score or tied for highest score in the Mid-American Conference APR is a gauge of every team’s academic performance at a given point in time. Points are awarded on a semester-by-semester basis for eligibility, retention and graduation of scholarship student-athletes. 1,000 is considered a perfect score. Sports that fail to reach the cut point (930) can be penalized with the loss of scholarships, practice restrictions and post-season bans. The APR data released May 8 is a cumulative figure taken from the 2014-15, 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 school years.

Rockets to host evening with football Toledo fans can order football tickets at coach May 29 Kentucky, Colorado State, Bowling Green

By Paul Helgren By Paul Helgren

niversity of Toledo Head Football experience with the team for selected home rders for away-game tickets for the To purchase season tickets, single- UCoach Jason Candle and his staff games, and NFL packages and gifts. O2019 University of Toledo football game tickets, or away-game tickets, stop will host a reception at the world-famous Proceeds will benefit The University of season are being taken at the Toledo Athletic by the Athletic Ticket Office, located in the Inverness Club Wednesday, May 29, from Toledo Rocket Fuel Program. Ticket Office, online or by phone. Sullivan Athletic Complex in Savage Arena, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Donation levels are $1,000 for a table Fans can purchase tickets for games go to utrockets.com or call 419.530.GOLD Craft beer and wine tasting, hors (seating for 10 and event recognition), $200 at Kentucky Saturday, Aug. 31 ($53); at (4653). d’oeuvres and a cash bar will be availble for a couple, and $125 for an individual. A Colorado State Saturday, Sept. 21 ($38); and Season tickets start at just $70 for fans and supporters of the Rockets at the portion of the ticket is tax-deductible. at Bowling Green Saturday, Oct. 12 ($25). University faculty and staff can buy Toledo golf club, 4601 Dorr St. Register at toledoalumni.org/events/ Tickets will be mailed at a later date. tickets half off with ID, and UToledo There will be a live auction; items events.aspx?eid=1209, or contact Tickets for the Rockets’ remaining students are admitted free with ID. will include a trip for two to the game Andrew Terwilliger at andrew.terwilliger@ away games will go on sale at a later date. at Colorado State, a complete game-day utoledo.edu or 614.580.9978.

14 NEWS MAY 13, 2019 Riding high Congrats!

Amelia Jacksy, a senior majoring in environmental engineering and co-president of the UToledo equestrian team, placed second in the nation in her class at the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association National Championships in Syracuse, N.Y. She competed in the Intermediate Equitation on the Flat, meaning she mounted an unfamiliar horse at the event. That horse — named Capital Photo by Daniel MiIler — was provided by the University of Findlay. More than 450 riders from colleges across the United Jacob Helminski, son of Holly Helminski, administrative assistant in the Department of Pharmacology States and Canada vied for honors at the championships. and Experimental Therapeutics, graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a major in accounting and finance and a minor in information systems. He started his job as an accountant with First Solar in Perrysburg.

In memoriam

Stanley E. Adamski, Orange City, Fla., a former mathematics instructor, died March 20 at age 68. UT News is published for faculty, staff and students by the University Communications Office weekly during the academic year and periodically during the summer. Copies are mailed to employees and Dr. David H. Davis, Toledo, professor placed in newsstands on the Main, Health Science, Scott Park and Toledo Museum of Art campuses. of political science, died May 1 at age UT News strives to present accurate, fair and timely communication of interest to employees. Story ideas and comments from the UT community are welcome. Send information by campus mail to 77. He joined the faculty in 1989. He #949, University Communications Office, Vicki Kroll. Email: [email protected]. Fax: 419.530.4618. taught courses on public administration, Phone: 419.530.2248. Mailing address: University Communications Office, The University of Toledo, environment, personnel, organizational Toledo, OH 43606-3390. behavior, management of nonprofit organizations, and public policy. In addition, ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS: Dr. Adrienne King DIRECTOR OF UNIVERSITY COMMUNICATIONS: Meghan Cunningham Davis served as director of the Master of EDITOR: Vicki L. Kroll Public Administration Program from 1989 GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Stephanie Delo to 1992. He was the author of five books PHOTOGRAPHER: Daniel Miller on environmental policy. He retired from CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Joe Bellfy, Christine Billau, Chase M. Foland, Tyrel Linkhorn, Davis the University in 2014. Bailey Sparks, Christine Wasserman Dr. Mary Louise Oakes, Toledo, who served as chair of the EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS: Laurie Flowers, Kim Goodin, Kelsi Rooks Catharine S. Eberly Center for Women Board for five years, died DISTRIBUTION ASSISTANT: Ahmed Tijani April 21 at age 82. An alumna of the University, she received Read UT news at utnews.utoledo.edu and myut.utoledo.edu. bachelor’s, master’s and education specialist degrees from the College of Education in 1970, 1974 and 1975, respectively. The University of Toledo is committed to a policy of equal Eleanor H. “Ellie” Stahl, Maumee, a volunteer with the Satellites opportunity in education, employment, membership and Auxiliary, died April 24 at age 92. contracts, and no differentiation will be made based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, Joyce M. (Gehring) Wilson, Northwood, a clerk at the University veteran status or the presence of a disability. The University from 1996 to 2000, died May 5 at age 70. will take affirmative action as required by federal or state law.

15 MAY 13, 2019 NEWS Got your plates? UToledo pride ready to roll with Rocket logo

he University of Toledo is proud to contributing to the University through Tannounce that drivers now have a the Foundation, purchasing UToledo choice of two UToledo specialized designs specialty plates is another great way our when ordering their Ohio license plates — a students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and UToledo logo plate and a Rocket icon plate. our athletics fans can promote UToledo,” Any Ohio resident with a valid Bonnie Murphy, associate vice president for driver’s license may order the UToledo auxiliaries, said. collegiate plates for their vehicles by either “While the University logo plate has stopping at any Ohio Bureau of Motor been available for several years, last fall we Vehicles agency or visiting oplates.com. In were able to quickly gather more than the addition to annual license registration fees, 200 signatures required to petition the BMV UToledo specialized plates cost $35, with to produce a newly designed Rocket plate, $25 directly supporting UToledo student which we anticipate will be very popular scholarships. among Rocket fans,” Murphy said. “We’re pleased to offer our alumni and UToledo plates may be purchased other stakeholders an additional opportunity through the BMV at any time throughout the to show their Rocket pride wherever they year, and also may be used for vanity plates. go,” UToledo President Sharon L. Gaber Once purchased, it takes approximately said. “Our goal is to get hundreds of three weeks for Ohio collegiate plates to be UToledo collegiate plates on the road over delivered via the U.S. Postal Service. the next few months to help fund student For more details about UToledo scholarships and raise awareness of the specialty plates, including all associated Photo by Daniel MiIler University.” costs and other frequently asked questions, “Along with wearing Rocket visit utoledo.edu/license-plates. DRIVING SPIRIT: Dr. Michele Soliz, associate vice president for student success and inclusion, said gear, flying a UToledo flag at home or she is proud to display UToledo specialized plates on her vehicle. More than 400 Ohio drivers currently use UToledo specialty plates on their vehicles.

Road warriors

Dr. Ricky Voigt, left, and Dr. Bobby Easterling recently completed a coast-to-coast cycling trip that raised more than $16,000 for The University of Toledo Community Care Clinics. Voigt and Easterling, who graduated with medical degrees from the College of Medicine and Life Sciences May 10, began their trip in Santa Monica, Calif., and finished it in Rehoboth Beach, Del., covering 3,138 miles over 44 days. “Our journey from the Pacific to the Atlantic was both taxing and rewarding. We were blessed all along the way with incredible support from friends, family and total strangers who made our monumental goals obtainable,” Voigt said. “Reaching the sandy shores of Delaware marked the end of our great adventure, but the memories and life lessons learned in perseverance, teamwork and determination will forever stay with us.”